After looking at the options, we found that Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the top car shipping company in Maine, earning an impressive 4.8 out of 5 star for pricing, satisfaction, and quality of service. While several things can impact how much you'll pay to ship your car from Maine, you can generally expect the total cost to fall between $764 - $1,210.
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Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
We're here to help you make sense of car shipping — with honest info, expert research, and zero fluff.
Our team reviewed 2,400 car shipping companies across the country, scoring them on cost, services, reliability, and what actual customers are saying. We don't just look at star ratings — we dig into patterns and pain points that really matter.
Everything we publish is checked by our in-house editorial team to make sure it's accurate, up-to-date, and ready to help you make smart decisions.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in Maine
Car shipping companies that have a national presence have more availability, more services, and are usually more affordable. Here are our reviews of the most trusted car shipping companies serving Maine.
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in Maine
These local auto transport companies in Maine have been carefully reviewed, but they may not offer the same range of services or availability as the top national providers above.
Sullivan's Automotive Service, Inc.
Sullivan's Automotive Service, Inc. (DOT: 541179) is a car shipping company that offers several specialized services, including open transport, trailer shipping, heavy equipment shipping, and the transport of inoperable cars.
They are known for their damage-free guarantee and do not require a deposit for their services. However, a potential downside for some customers is that they do not provide fully insured shipping. The company has earned a solid reputation with a Google rating of 3.8, though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Open Transport
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) specializes in a wide range of vehicle shipping services, including boat, RV, motorcycle, and heavy equipment shipping. They offer both open and enclosed transport options and are equipped to handle international shipping as well. Customers can also benefit from expedited delivery services and real-time shipment tracking.
However, the company does not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery or transport for inoperable cars, which may be a drawback for some clients. They also lack senior, teacher, student, and military discounts. Xpress Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google, making it challenging for potential customers to gauge their reputation based on reviews.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
CraftsTransport
CraftsTransport specializes in providing interstate car shipping services and has earned a respectable Google rating of 4.1. The company, however, has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Notable for accepting payment by money order and credit card, CraftsTransport also ensures their clients do not have to pay in cryptocurrencies. However, a downside for some customers could be the lack of a damage-free guarantee during transit.
Additionally, the company does not offer several specialty services such as shipping inoperable cars, motorcycle shipping, or enclosed transport, which may limit their appeal to certain customers with specific needs.
Services Offered
- Deposit Required
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Interstate
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in Maine
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of Maine:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From Maine to Ohio | 1312 | 1706 |
| From Maine to Illinois | 1446 | 1880 |
| From Maine to Florida | 1631 | 2120 |
| From Maine to Michigan | 1291 | 1678 |
| From Maine to Arizona | 2330 | 3029 |
| From California to Maine | 2518 | 3273 |
| From Georgia to Maine | 1569 | 2040 |
| From New York to Maine | 901 | 1171 |
| From Texas to Maine | 2111 | 2744 |
| From North Carolina to Maine | 1274 | 1656 |
Find your exact route to ship your car from Maine.
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of Maine:
- Distance and Location: Distance directly affects shipping costs out of Maine: longer distances increase fuel and labor expenses, raising overall fees. Location influences accessibility; remote areas might incur higher charges due to limited transport routes.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Expect higher shipping rates out of Maine if you’re transporting a large vehicle, a collectible, or anything that isn’t drivable. Special handling and lift equipment can add to the overall cost.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is less expensive and uses an open trailer, exposing your car to Maine's weather and road conditions. Enclosed car shipping costs about 30% more but keeps your car inside a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, around 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Maine's long, cold, and very snowy winters increase car shipping costs due to challenging road conditions and potential delays. Harsh weather can require specialized vehicles for transport.
- Additional Services Extra services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raise the cost of shipping a car out of Maine. These services require more resources and faster turnaround, which increase prices.
Each of the elements mentioned above can significantly affect the total price of transporting your vehicle out of Maine. We suggest filling out the form below to receive quotes from multiple auto transport providers in Maine, allowing you to evaluate their offerings and payment structures to find the best fit.
How to Cut Car Shipping Costs
Getting your car shipped — especially across the country — isn’t cheap. But if you’re in Maine, here are some smart ways to lower the cost:
- Shop around. Don't choose the first car shipping company you find. Many offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from different companies. Compare both prices and services to ensure a fair comparison. Some companies might seem cheaper but offer fewer services than others.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military personnel, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions that can help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies often won't disclose extra fees until after you accept their quote. Be sure to ask about additional costs, such as gas, tolls, and terminal handling fees, ahead of time. Confirm all fees in writing before signing any agreement to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping closer to your pickup date will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you choose a shipping company, book early to get the best price.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car during peak seasons like spring, early summer, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas costs more due to higher demand and lower availability. To get a better price and more scheduling options, choose a time outside these busy periods if possible.
- Opt for open transport. Opting for open shipping instead of enclosed can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection but are significantly more expensive. While open carriers expose your vehicle to weather and road risks, they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up your car and deliver it to your new home is convenient but usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, choosing this option will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in Maine:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide locked-in rates, ensuring your quote stays the same until delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unexpected events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies offer a guaranteed delivery date and will try their best to meet it. If you don't choose this option, the timeline they provide is just an estimate. Remember that bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, which are beyond the car shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. Make sure you know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and, importantly, what it doesn't. Compare this with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car during transport.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Be sure to read your bill of lading when it's given to you for signing at delivery. It may look like a regular receipt, but it's much more important. This document details the services you received and confirms your car's condition upon arrival. Check it carefully to ensure everything you paid for is listed and any vehicle damage is noted. If these details aren't included, you won't have grounds to file a claim later.
How We Chose the Best Maine Auto Transport Companies
Our methodology for selecting the top car shipping companies in Maine is centered around a comprehensive analysis of five critical factors: licensing, customer satisfaction, service range, pricing, and online reputation.
- Licensing proves that a company complies with both Maine and federal laws — giving you added peace of mind.
- We assess customer satisfaction by digging into ratings and reviews that reveal real-world service experiences.
- Service variety matters — from standard vehicles to specialty shipments like classic cars or oversized equipment.
- Competitive, upfront pricing is a must, especially for the unique conditions of shipping a vehicle in Maine.
- We also check online reputation across review sites and social media to gauge transparency and overall trustworthiness.
Local Car Shippers In Maine
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About Maine Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a Maine car shipping company?
Shipping your car is a practical alternative to driving long distances through Maine's extensive roads and changing weather. It saves time and effort, especially with Maine's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
To avoid scams, conduct thorough research and focus on companies familiar with Maine's logistics. Ensure their insurance coverage meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in Maine?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping gives better protection from Maine's weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Ensure the car shipping company offers insurance to cover potential damages. Ask about the specific terms, such as what is covered and the amount of coverage. Always verify if additional insurance options are available for full-value protection.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of Maine?
First, clean the car inside and out. Take photos of the car to document any existing damages. Check for any personal items and remove them. In Maine, make sure the car passes the required safety inspection before the move.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in Maine?
Check for good reviews, correct licensing, and clear pricing. A company experienced with Maine's logistics and weather is ideal.
